18 July 2007 -

Population and freshwater demand drive water reuse in US

According to a new Frost & Sullivan report, US Water Recycling and Reuse Systems Market, water recycling and reuse is gaining popularity in the United States, due to the growing demand for water in industries and municipal applications such as agricultural irrigation, lawn watering, and other non-potable applications. Population and the growing economy are also increasing demand.

The report suggests that another driver of demand are stringent federal wastewater discharge regulations. The absence of federal standards for water reuse has forced the states to establish their own standards, and California and Florida are leading the nation in recycling and reusing water, while other southern states such as Georgia , Texas , Arizona , and Nevada also have water reuse programmes.

"The opportunities for water reuse are tremendous and the states are realizing its potential benefits," notes a Frost & Sullivan analyst. "The rising cost of water, which is a direct effect of the current water shortage, coupled with tighter environmental regulations, offers good market opportunities for existing and emerging participants."

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